If you’re researching publishing, you’ve probably seen the different types of editing being discussed. It can be hard to determine what kind of editing you need
1. Developmental Editing: Big Picture Focus
Also called: substantive editing or structural editing
Purpose: Strengthen the overall structure, content, and flow
Developmental editing happens early in the editing process. This is where your editor helps you shape your ideas, organize your content, and make sure your work makes sense to your target audience. It's less about grammar and more about what you're saying and how you’re saying it. This is the most expensive type of editing.
What it includes:
Identifying plot holes or gaps in logic
Clarifying your message or themes
Reorganizing chapters or sections for better flow
Improving pacing, tone, and voice
Giving feedback on character development (for fiction)
Best for: Authors working on a first draft or needing help developing their ideas and structure.
2. Copy Editing: Line-by-Line Polish
Also called: line editing (though some consider these slightly different)
Purpose: Improve clarity, consistency, and correctness at the sentence level
Copy editing is the next layer down. Your story or article is already solid in structure—but now it’s time to fine-tune your language. A copy editor will make sure your writing is clear, grammatically correct, and in line with your chosen style guide (like Chicago or AP). This type of editing is generally cheaper than developmental editing but more expensive than proofreading. It is also the type of editor that most authors tend to hire.
What it includes:
Grammar and punctuation corrections
Consistency in spelling, capitalization, and formatting
Sentence clarity and flow
Word choice and tone improvements
Fixing repetition or awkward phrasing
Best for: Writers with a complete draft who want their writing to shine before publication.
3. Proofreading: The Final Check
Also called: final pass or quality control
Purpose: Catch typos, formatting issues, and minor mistakes before publishing
Proofreading is the last step before your work is published or submitted. It’s a surface-level review that catches anything that slipped through the cracks. This is generally the cheapest form of editing. However, most, if not all, authors cannot just hire a proofreader and not a copy editor.
What it includes:
Typos and spelling errors
Punctuation mistakes
Formatting issues (headings, spacing, fonts)
Incorrect page numbers or captions
Best for: Final drafts that have already been edited but need one more careful look.
Why the Distinction Matters
Hiring the right kind of editor at the right time helps you:
Avoid wasting money on proofreading a draft that still needs developmental work
Receive the right kind of feedback to meet your goals
Produce the best possible version of your work
Think of it like building a house:
Developmental editing is the blueprint and framing
Copy editing is the finishing of the walls and installing fixtures
Proofreading is the final walk-through to make sure the doors close and the paint is perfect
In Summary
Type of Editing Focus Area When to Use It
Proofreading Typos, formatting Final draft before publication
Copyediting Grammar, clarity, style After structural revisions
Developmental Editing Structure, content, ideas Early drafts
Whether you're self-publishing a book, submitting an article, or preparing marketing materials, understanding these editing stages can help you choose the right professional (or process) at the right time.
Need help figuring out which type of editing your project needs? Reach out—I’d be happy to guide you! My email is awestediting@gmail.com or you can find me on Facebook at @Amanda West Editing.